Contours of Expression: Tsuyoshi Maekawa, Tetsuo Mizù, Julie & Jesse and Kohei Kyomori

Whitestone Gallery is pleased to announce the soft opening of its new Hong Kong space in Wong Chuk Hang with the group exhibition “Contours of Expression.” This exhibition brings together an extraordinary lineup of artists spanning different generations and practices: post-war Japanese artist Tsuyoshi Maekawa (b. 1936), celebrated painter Tetsuo Mizù (1944 - 2025), contemporary duo Julie & Jesse (established 2012), and emerging talent Kohei Kyomori (b. 1985) — whose practices challenge traditional boundaries through a vibrant expression of contour and composition.

Tsuyoshi Maekawa’s unique approach to fabrics has made himself distinguishable in the Gutai group. Since the late 1950s, he has concentrated on lines, shapes and materials, primarily using burlap as his medium. His process involves laying linen cloth flat on the canvas, applying oil paint and employing techniques such as rubbing and sewing threads to create tactile, dynamic compositions. As a second-generation Gutai artist, Maekawa pioneers the exploration of the relationship between artwork, space, and viewers.

Tetsuo Mizù's maritime signal flags as a motif makes his abstract paintings feel tangible. Characterized by primary colors and checkerboard-like compositions, his works appear deceptively simple yet transcend their geometric structure, conveying a subtle melancholy that mirrors the artist's internal states and consciousness. Through a rhythmic interplay of lines, colors, flattened textures, Mizù enhances the visual experience, evoking themes of communication, solitude, and reflection.

Julie & Jesse is a creative duo renowned for their investigative approach to found objects from Hong Kong and Jingdezhen. Through experimentation, they transform ceramic shards into new art forms. Rooted in curiosity, they reject the predetermined functionality imposed by societal or cultural norms, redefining these materials with fresh purpose. By distilling individuality and origin into each object, their works become a poetic testament to exceptional craftsmanship.

Kohei Kyomori has consistently explored the culture of decoration within social and historical contexts, examining the new values of visual culture. He has developed various series that expand his contemplation of decoration, and its role in fostering connections with worship and authority. This exhibition will showcase his classic M Series, featuring portraits, alongside the S series, which utilizes ink brushstrokes and resin paint to create new value within the ornamental structure he envisions.